Athletic Training

Kansas City, MO - The NAIA announced the 2011-12 All-American teams, and Graceland University's Florida Siaosi has been named to the Third Team.

The Apple Valley, Calif. native is the first Jacket selected as an NAIA All-American since the Heart of America Athletic Conference's move to Division I of the NAIA.

"I'm very surprised, yet thankful," admitted Siaosi. "I owe this to my team and coaches, because they have helped with everything."

It isn't surprising to head coach Rich Harrop that the 5-foot-11 forward's initial reaction was to offer her teammates and coaching staff as the primary reason for her success.

"Florida is the perfect example of a team player," said Harrop, "and her commitment to her teammates and to the coaching staff in practice are highlighted by the accolades she has accumulated this year."

Siaosi, in addition to a Third Team NAIA selection, also received the HAAC Player of the Year award earlier this month. Siaosi led GU in total scoring (424 points), average scoring (16.3 points), field goal percentage (.500 percent), rebounding (12.31 per game) and recorded an astounding 21 double-doubles this season.

Siaosi finished second in points per game in the HAAC to Culver-Stockton University's Aneshia Starks, but averaged two more rebounds per game then her nearest opposition in conference play.

The Jackets finished the last two seasons with a combined record of 30-29, including a 14-13 record this season, its first winning season in recent memory. It certainly won't be a season Siaosi will forget any time soon.

"By far my favorite memory was beating Avila University (in the HAAC semifinals) on the road. But, more importantly, I will miss playing with these ladies. I couldn't have asked for better teammates."

Lastly, during Siaosi's career, Graceland made an appearance in back-to-back HAAC title games, falling 79-70 to MidAmerica Nazarene University. Harrop believes Siaosi's honor could have been more had the Jackets advanced to the National Tournament.

"No question to me," added Harrop, "that Florida could have showcased her talents on a national scale and received a higher recognition. I regret that we couldn't do that for her.

"Then again, I'm sure a higher award wouldn't matter to her. She's all about her teammates and getting the team a victory. That's what she's about and that's why she embodies everything great about Graceland athletics."

For a full list of NAIA Women's Division I Basketball All-Americans, click here.